COVID-19 vaccine policy for Long Term Care staff

The provincial government is requiring Long Term Care homes to have a COVID-19 immunization policy in place.

During Wednesday’s meeting of the Hastings County Long Term Care committee, Director Debbie Rollins explained that a mandatory staff policy has to be in place by July 1.

Rollins says it has three components; documentation of those who have been vaccinated; those who are unable to take it for medical reasons; and education.

Rollins added the province is hoping education will increase awareness, answer some questions and increase the vaccination numbers.

She noted there is something missing in the provincial policy and that is being questioned by Long Term Care.

“The part that was not specifically addressed in the policy was for consequences of not taking it if we were to go into an outbreak.  So we’ve, through advantage, we’ve gone back and are asking more questions around that and that part of the policy hasn’t been drafted yet.”

Rollins also explained, “So our policy needs to be in place for July first. From now until then we’re kind of getting our numbers in place and identifying anybody who can’t take it (the COVID-19 vaccine) in determining whether it’s a personal reason or medical reason and then our education will start and move forward from there…  We’ve asked the ministry if there’s any intent on them making it mandatory and, at this moment in time, they’re not. They’re hoping that this will work.”